For Admitted Students

Will GW extend the July final high school transcript deadline?

As soon as your final high school transcript with date of graduation is available, please have it sent to GW Undergraduate Admissions, 800 21st Street, NW, Suite 100, Washington, DC 20052 or by email to [email protected]. If your school is unable to provide a final transcript, please let us know.

Will GW honor Pass/Fail grading for the spring 2020 academic year?

We understand that COVID-19 has been disruptive to schools across the globe. We will be flexible with grading adjustments that secondary schools have adopted to complete the 2019-2020 academic year.

Will GW convert a Pass to a letter grade?

GW does not recalculate a “pass” grade to a letter grade or calculate it into a cumulative GPA.

My senior year schedule changed. Will that impact my admission offer?

We know that COVID-19 precautions impacted many students from completing an academic schedule that was determined earlier in the academic year. We will honor our admission offer and any merit-based scholarship award offered.

The College Board announced changes to AP testing format. Will this impact how GW applies eligible college credit for AP exams?

We understand that this is stressful when students have worked so hard taking these rigorous classes. We have kept our transfer credit policy in place, and we will honor the AP scores for all exams taken in spring 2020. View AP tests equivalents.

I am an IB student, and IB exams have been canceled. Will that impact my admission status or eligibility to receive IB college credit at GW?

I am an AICE, IGCSE, or A-Level student, and Cambridge International exams have been canceled. Will that impact my admission status or eligibility to receive college credit at GW?

We understand that this is stressful when students have worked so hard taking these rigorous classes, therefore we have kept our transfer credit policy in place.

I am a Dual Enrolled student and my classes have moved online, will this impact my admission or potential transferable credits?

GW will honor our admission offer and any merit-based scholarship award offered. We understand that COVID-19 impacted Dual Enrollment and it is stressful when students have worked so hard taking these rigorous classes. Therefore, GW has kept our transfer credit policy in place.

Transfer Applicants Fall 2020

Do previous deadlines still apply?

GW has extended its transfer application deadline until June 19. Our notification deadlines (the latest we will notify students) remain unchanged.

My school is closed due to COVID-19 and I cannot get an official transcript, what can I do?

Most colleges and universities are working remotely, therefore it is important that you visit your current (and/or former) institution’s registrar website to see how to request a transcript. We prefer electronic submission to [email protected], whenever possible.

I do not know how to get the required College Report, can it be waived?

GW is now waiving the College Report for transfer applicants. If you have further questions about this requirement, please contact us at [email protected].

Will GW honor Pass/Fail grading for the spring 2020 academic year?

We understand that COVID-19 has been disruptive to schools across the globe. We will be flexible with grading adjustments that colleges and universities may have adopted to complete the 2019-2020 academic year. These credits will be evaluated for transfer credit as long as you earned the passing mark of the system your current institution has chosen to use.

Will my GW admission decision be delayed due to COVID-19 precautions?

We do not anticipate any delays in releasing our decisions for fall 2020 transfer admission.

My documents are going to be delayed in getting to GW because of COVID-19. Will that hurt my application?

Please email us at [email protected] to let us know when we can expect to receive the requirements.

I mailed my documents to GW through the postal service/FedEX/UPS/DHL/etc. a long time ago and you still don’t have them. What’s going on?

GW staff are working remotely, and we are still able to receive mail and deliveries. However, the time to process documents and credentials is longer than usual. If you are able to provide us with tracking information, it may help us to locate items sent prior to us receiving your application. Please email us at [email protected] if you see previously sent items missing from your application status checklist in your GW student portal.

Financial Aid Fall 2020

My family's income has been impacted by COVID-19, what steps can we take to apply for or appeal our financial aid award?

GW provides students an opportunity to appeal for financial aid. This is especially important if your family’s financial circumstances have changed due to COVID-19 job changes or loss of income. We encourage you to complete an appeal form and then submit it to [email protected].

My family did not apply for financial aid but we need to now that our income has been impacted by COVID-19. Where can we find out what needs to be submitted?

GW’s Office of Student Financial Assistance is your best resource and they can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 202-994-6620. You can view all of the requirements here including submitting the FAFSA and CSS profile. This information is also available in your GW Student Portal account in the Financial Aid section.

Fall 2020 New Student Orientation and Course Registration

Where can I find information about New Student Orientation?

First-year and transfer enrolling students can find information about New Student Orientation on their website and in their portal (Register under your Next Steps, then additional information will appear). New students and their families will receive regular communication from the Orientation team via an email newsletter, “Next Stop GW.” This newsletter provides timely and relevant information, dates, deadlines, and reminders required to complete over the summer, before, and upon arrival to GW. Feel free to direct questions to [email protected].

When do enrolling first-year students register for classes?

As part of the enrollment process, all incoming students participate in registration over the summer prior to New Student Orientation. Once you register for Orientation, details will appear in your portal, and updates will be shared in the “Next Stop GW” newsletter and in email communications to your GW email address.

Prospective Students (Spring 2021 and Beyond)

Are there any on-campus information sessions and tours being held? How do I register for a Virtual Visit?

Due to COVID-19 precautionary measures, GW is only offering Virtual Information Sessions at this time. A virtual tour of our campus can be found on our website. In our Virtual Information Session, you’ll hear about our student experience and all things GW, including information on admissions and financial aid. You’ll have your questions answered by a member of our admissions team and a current student during a live question-and-answer session.

Can I still sit in on a class even if it is taught virtually?

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer this opportunity at this time. We hope that we will be able to resume class visits in the near future.

What is GW’s SAT and ACT test policy?

GW is test-optional, so if you are applying for first-year or transfer admission you are not required to submit standardized test scores, except in the following select circumstances:

Applicants applying to the accelerated Seven-Year B.A./M.D. Program

Applicants who are homeschooled

Applicants who attend secondary schools that provide only narrative evaluations rather than some form of grading scale

Recruited NCAA Division I athletes

Will GW honor Pass/Fail grading for the spring 2020 academic year? Will GW convert a Pass to a letter grade?

We understand that COVID-19 has been disruptive to schools across the globe. We will be flexible with grading adjustments that secondary schools have adopted to complete the 2019-2020 academic year. GW does not recalculate a “pass” grade to a letter grade or calculate it into a cumulative GPA.

What courses should I take to make myself a competitive candidate for GW admission?

Because we take a holistic approach to the application review process, we have no minimum GPA or SAT/ACT requirements for admission. However, admission to GW is competitive and admitted students are typically strong academic students in their high school graduating class.

I am a homeschool student. Are there special requirements I need to fulfill to apply for GW admission?

Along with the Common Application and letters of recommendation, homeschool students are required to submit the SAT or ACT and a transcript of courses taken to complete the high school diploma requirements. If a student needs guidance about applying as a homeschool student, please email us at [email protected] with your questions. We would be happy to offer you assistance.

What are your requirements for admission?

The Office of Admissions carefully reviews each applicant based on academic background, the rigor of high school coursework, and GPA. In addition, admissions officers consider essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. Submitting standardized test scores to GW is optional. We are looking for students who have the academic preparation, personal qualities, and motivation to thrive in GW’s dynamic environment.

What factors go into the admissions decision-making process?

The review of a GW admissions application is holistic and includes an evaluation of the applicant’s academic background, the rigor of the high school program and grades earned. In addition, the committee takes into consideration essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities and test scores (if applicable).

Are there minimum SAT/ACT or GPA requirements for admission to GW?

Because we take a holistic approach to the application review process, we have no minimum GPA or SAT/ACT requirements for admission. However, admission to GW is competitive and admitted students are typically strong academic students in their high school graduating class.

Can I change my school or major?

First-year applicants can select primary and alternate schools before they submit their application. Transfer students only select a primary school. We do not allow students to alter their school list once it has been submitted. Current GW students may be able to transfer into another school after their first year, although rules vary by program.

Am I required to designate a primary and alternate school choice on the application?

All early decision, regular decision, and transfer applicants are required to select a primary GW school or college on the application for admission. First-year applicants are encouraged (but not required) to select an alternate GW school or college.

Which admissions requirements must I fulfill if I apply to both a primary and alternate choice school?

Students selecting a primary and an alternate choice must fulfill all admission requirements for both schools, if they are different. For example, if you select a BFA program within the Corcoran School of the Arts and Design as your primary or alternate choice, you would be required to submit a portfolio.

If I am offered an opportunity to be on the waitlist, can I change my primary and/or alternate choice schools?

No, you cannot change your primary and/or alternate schools. You will be considered for admission off the waitlist if space becomes available in either your primary or alternate choice.

How do I monitor the status of my application materials online?

Your application status can be checked through the GW Undergraduate Student Portal. Applicants will receive an email with a link to sign up after their application is received by GW.

What is the GW Undergraduate Student Portal?

The GW Undergraduate Student Portal is designed so the applicant can not only check the status of their admissions application, but also find their GWID, view missing documents, find our contact information, and when it’s posted, view their application decision and next steps. Details will be sent via email after applications are processed by the university.

How do I locate my GWID?

Applicants can find their GWID under their name in the GW Undergraduate Student Portal. If your GWID is not visible in your portal, please reach out to our office at [email protected] with your first name, last name, and date of birth.

Do I need to submit a portfolio for admission? If it’s not required, can I still send in extra portfolio materials? (Specifically Common App arts supplement)

Only students who intend to earn a BFA (except Interior Architecture) within the Corcoran School of the Arts and Design must submit a portfolio (12 to 20 completed pieces). When applying to GW via the Common Application, if you select Corcoran as your primary or alternate school choice, you will receive information on how to submit your portfolio via Slideroom.

Students applying for any other degree are not required to submit a portfolio. Please note that GW cannot guarantee that any submitted material will be reviewed if it is not part of the official application process.

How much is the application fee? Can I receive a fee waiver?

GW’s application fee is $80 and can be paid via the Common App. Students looking for a fee waiver should make a request from the Profile screen of the Common App; if a student does not meet those criteria but still wants to request a fee waiver, they should have their counselor contact our office.

Should I apply to George Washington University through the Early Decision plan?

Early Decision is a binding agreement. If admitted, applicants agree to attend GW, submit a non-refundable enrollment fee by the deposit deadline, and withdraw applications submitted to other colleges. Therefore, if GW is your first choice college and you definitely plan to attend if accepted, then we encourage you to apply Early Decision.

Do you accept AP, IB, or college credits taken in high school?

Yes, first-year and transfer applicants may earn college credit through AP, IB, or college courses. Find details under Bring Credit to GW.

Can I receive a second bachelor’s degree?

If you have previously earned a bachelor’s degree, you can apply as a transfer student to earn a second degree at GW; however, students with bachelor's degrees will not be able to transfer any credit to GW and are not eligible for scholarships or financial aid (except for the Federal Direct Stafford Loan).

Do you offer online programs?

Yes, GW offers certain certificate, bachelor’s, and graduate programs online. These programs are coordinated by GW Online Programs and not the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Explore GW’s online program options.

Can I apply if I have earned a GED?

Yes, if you have not attended college since earning your GED, you can apply as a first-year applicant; if you have attended college since earning your GED, you can apply as a transfer student.

What are your homeschool requirements?

Students who have been schooled at home are required to submit standardized test scores in addition to our other application requirements. The Office of Admissions will work with students to waive the Counselor Recommendation form. Read more about our admission process for first-year or transfer students.

What are your requirements for high school students who attend online high schools?

Students who have attended an online high school are required to submit standardized test scores in addition to our other application requirements. Read more about our admission process for first-year or transfer students.

If I’m admitted for the fall semester, may I start school early?

Students who have been admitted for the fall semester at GW are not eligible to move up their entry date to the summer semester.

If I will complete most or all of my high school requirements as a junior, can I apply as a high school junior?

As long as you have met the graduation requirements set forth by your local high school, you may apply for undergraduate admission to GW. We look forward to receiving your application!

Is it possible for readmitted students to start during one of GW’s summer sessions?

Yes, students who were previously registered at GW and wish to resume studies after discontinuing enrollment for one or more semesters (summer sessions and leaves of absence excluded) must apply for readmission. Applications are accepted at any time as long as they adhere to the deadlines for each semester. The deadline to submit your readmission application for the summer session is four (4) weeks prior to the beginning of the desired summer session.

Who is considered a transfer student?

A transfer student is anyone who has graduated from high school and completed at least one college course since high school graduation.

Do you accept credits from my college?

GW accepts transfer credit from various colleges and universities. All domestic transfer credit must have been taken at a regionally-accredited institution. International transfer credits must have been taken at an institution recognized by the country’s Ministry of Education.

What is the maximum number of transfer credits GW will accept?

GW’s residence requirement limits the number of transfer credits that can be applied toward a degree. Students must complete at least 60 of the total credits required for their degree at or through the university. Credits earned through GW study abroad, GW satellite campuses, GW distance education courses, and Consortium courses are treated as “in residence.”

When will I receive my credit evaluation to see which credits will transfer?

An evaluation of your courses taken at other institutions is completed after you have been admitted to GW. You will receive your evaluation, which outlines which credits will transfer to GW, with your letter of admission; however, final determination of how credit will be applied toward your degree must be obtained from your academic advisor. We suggest you meet with your advisor upon acceptance to determine which courses will fulfill degree requirements.

How many credits and what GPA do I need to be admitted?

There is no standard credit or GPA requirement for transfer admission into GW. The Admissions Committee carefully reviews each applicant based on academic background and the rigor of high school coursework. In addition, the committee takes into consideration essays, letters of recommendation and extracurricular activities.

Do I need to submit high school information and standardized test scores?

Your transcript should be sent from each high school you attended. This requirement is waived for students with an associate's degree.

Is there a separate application for international applicants?

No, all undergraduate applicants apply via the Common Application. However, requirements differ, so we encourage you to review the international application process.

As an international student, am I eligible for financial or merit aid?

International students are not eligible for need-based financial assistance, but they are eligible for merit scholarships, for which there is no additional application.

How do I apply if I am a dual citizen?

Any U.S. citizen, including those with dual citizenship, or U.S. permanent resident should apply as a domestic student.

I am not a U.S. citizen, but I live in the United States and go to school here. Am I considered an international student?

Anyone who is not either a U.S. citizen nor a U.S. permanent resident is considered an international student.

If I am in the process of obtaining citizenship/permanent residency/a green card, how do I apply for admission?

Students who are in the process of obtaining a green card/residency/citizenship are required to apply as an international student. You must provide required documentation, including a bank statement and financial certificate. If you are granted residency, subsequent to being admitted, but before matriculating, you may not be required to go through the F-1 Visa process.

Is the TOEFL/IELTS test required for admission for international students? If so, what is the minimum preferred TOEFL/IELTS score?

If English is not your first language, you are required to demonstrate English proficiency as part of the admissions process, regardless of citizenship. For details, review our international application process.

I attend an American high school (or college) and have been taking classes taught entirely in English. Do I still need to take the TOEFL/IELTS?

If you spent your most recent four years in a school setting where English is the sole language of instruction in all academic subjects (excluding foreign language and ESL/ELL courses), you are exempt from the TOEFL/IELTS/PTE requirement.

What financial documents are necessary to submit as proof of sufficient funding?

Is housing guaranteed for international students?

All first-, second- and third-year students are required to live on campus unless they have been approved for a Residency Exemption. More information regarding housing and the application process can be found on the GW Housing webpage.

What tests do I need to take?

GW does not require SAT/ACT scores for most students, but it does require TOEFL, IELTS or PTE scores for international applicants. For details and exceptions, view our test-optional policy.

How do I transfer credit for academic classes I have taken outside the U.S.?

International students or students who have taken academic classes outside the U.S. must have all previously attended educational institutions send copies of official certificates and records directly to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. These documents should list subjects studied, examinations taken, grades received and degrees received. Certified copies of diplomas and certificates from all secondary schools, colleges and universities attended as well as records of state examinations and certificates are also required.

When will I get my I-20?

Once we have received all required documents, it typically takes the Department of Homeland Security three weeks to process an I-20.

What kinds of resources are available to international students?

GW’s International Services Office (ISO) facilitates international educational exchange through its services and programs. It serves as the primary administrative, programming, and advising office for our international community.

Do I have to submit test scores?

GW is test-optional, so if you are applying for first-year or transfer admission you are not required to submit standardized test scores, except in the following select circumstances:

Applicants applying to the accelerated Seven-Year B.A./M.D. Program

Applicants who are homeschooled

Applicants who attend secondary schools that provide only narrative evaluations rather than some form of grading scale

Recruited NCAA Division I athletes

Are there minimum SAT/ACT or GPA requirements for admission to GW?

Because we take a holistic approach to the application review process, we have no minimum GPA or SAT/ACT requirements for admission. However, admission to GW is competitive and admitted students are typically strong academic students in their high school graduating class.

Can I change my application to test-optional after I submit?

You must choose whether to apply as test-optional prior to submitting your application. Once that selection has been made, it cannot be changed. Please know that following decision release, we will ask admitted students to submit test scores for research purposes.

I know GW is a test-optional school. If I choose to submit SAT scores, does GW require me to send scores from the redesigned SAT?

GW will accept scores from either the old version of the SAT or the redesigned SAT for admission. GW will consider the reading and math sections of the redesigned SAT; neither the writing section of the redesigned SAT nor the ACT will be evaluated.

Does GW superscore standardized tests?

GW will take the highest composite score from the ACT but will superscore the SAT (we do not combine the old and new SAT, though; superscores must be from the same test version).

Does GW require SAT Subject Tests for admission?

SAT Subject Tests are not required, except for the B.A./M.D. program. If sent, they will be considered with the rest of the file.

Do you offer merit scholarships?

Yes, applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships as part of the admissions process. Learn more about merit scholarships at GW.

Are international students eligible for financial or merit aid?

International students are not eligible for need-based financial assistance, but they are eligible for merit scholarships, for which there is no additional application.

Is GW need-blind or need-aware?

GW practices need-aware admissions, which allows us to meet as much of the financial need of as many students as possible. The admissions committee begins the evaluation process by reading each applicant’s file based solely upon the merits of the application. A student’s financial background is not considered until the final stages of the admissions process.

Is all financial aid at GW guaranteed?

GW guarantees that any merit scholarship awarded to admitted students will remain the same from year to year. Federal loan assistance is also guaranteed to be awarded as long as the student completes their aid application on an annual basis. Need-based financial assistance (including grants and federal work-study) provided by GW or the federal government are subject to change based on the submission of an annual financial aid application. Please note that receiving both GW and federal aid assistance is dependent on the student making satisfactory academic progress.

Should I include both a primary and secondary school on my application?

When applying to GW, all first-year, transfer, and international applicants are required to select a primary GW school or college. First-year applicants may also indicate an alternate choice. You are not required to choose an alternate school or college, but we encourage students to select one.

Applications that include a primary and alternate school will be considered sequentially, first for the primary school and then by the alternate choice. If a student is not admitted to their primary school and no secondary school is listed, they will not be admitted to GW.

Students selecting a primary and an alternate choice must fulfill all admission requirements for both schools, if they are different. For example, if the Corcoran School of the Arts and Design is your primary or alternate choice, you would be required to submit a portfolio.

Can I complete more than one major at GW? If so, what is the percentage of GW students double majoring?

You can certainly double major at GW. Approximately 18 percent of seniors double major at GW, and 30 percent have a minor in a related discipline.

If I want to double major between schools, which school should I list as my primary school?

Choose your top choice school as your primary school. GW students are able to double major across schools, regardless of the school to which they were admitted. As a student, you can work with your academic advisor to explore double-major options.

If I am a student in Corcoran, can I double major?

The Corcoran School of the Arts and Design is considered part of the broader Columbian College of Arts and Sciences at GW. Students who complete the requirements of two majors in the Columbian College (such as mathematics and physics, or history and economics) may graduate with a double major under a specific primary degree (BA, BS, BFA). However, due to the studio-intensive nature of the BFA programs, students will have to work diligently if they are to achieve a double major with another academic concentration. We strongly encourage students to consult with advisors in the two departments of interest before declaring both majors.

Can I switch my major?

Generally, yes. Some programs may have requirements, while others are open. Your academic advisor can help you if you wish to change majors after you enroll.

Students who wish to change to a major within another school must submit an internal transfer request to the University Registrar. A university-wide graduation requirement is that students must be registered in the college/school in which their primary major is housed. Some schools may require that certain prerequisite courses have been taken and that minimum grades have been earned before the transfer is processed.

How many classes are taught by teaching or graduate assistants?

Graduate assistants may lead break-out or discussion sections at GW, but no graduate assistant relays new information independent of the course’s main instructor.

How do I apply for special academic programs?

Can I choose to apply to special programs after I submit my application?

No, you must select any special programs you wish to apply to before submitting your application.

How many students apply each year to the Seven-Year B.A./M.D. Program?

Usually between 1,000 to 1,200 students apply to the Seven-Year B.A./M.D Program each year. Applicants exhibit academic excellence, competitive (90th percentile) SAT/ACT scores, leadership in activities, community service, healthcare experiences and a strong desire to become a physician.

How many students are admitted to the B.A./M.D. program? How many spaces are there?

Typically, the cohort size for the B.A./M.D. program is 10-15 students. Of those that apply, approximately 20-30 students are brought to campus for interviews with current GW faculty to determine finalists.

What is NROTC, and how does it work at GW?

GW’s Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) adds military training, opportunities, and knowledge to the traditional undergraduate program. The program is comprised of midshipmen and prior-enlisted Sailors and Marines from GW, Catholic University, University of Maryland at College Park, Georgetown University, and Howard University. Learn more information about GW’s NROTC.

Do you have an honors program?

Yes, the GW Honors Program is an interdisciplinary experience that helps students hone their analytical and expressive powers, deepen their understanding of complex issues and broaden their perspectives. Our Honors students are what we like to call “intellectual omnivores” - they understand that you can’t be interested in one thing without being interested in all things. Applicants may choose to apply to the University Honors Program via the Common Application. Learn more at the GW Honors Program website.

Can I reapply to the Honors Program if I’m not selected in my first year?

Does GW offer summer programs for high school students?

Do you have student fly-in programs?

We offer Your GW, which celebrates diversity and inclusion, each fall. Students apply to attend the program. Learn more on the Your GW webpage.

Can I stay in a residence hall when I visit campus?

We do not offer regular overnight visits. For a list of local hotels with GW rates, visit our campus travel website.

When is the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Welcome Center open?

Our office is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Fridays (except university holidays), with extended phone and email hours offered during peak seasons. The Admissions Welcome Center hosts information sessions and campus tours Monday through Friday and on select Saturdays throughout the year; view available dates on our visit calendar. Note that the Welcome Center will be closed through at least April 5 due to the university's response to COVID-19. View campus updates at https://go.gwu.edu/covid19 and watch our visit calendar for availability.

Are open houses offered during the fall/spring?

We offer a variety of programs throughout the year. See all of our public visit opportunities on our visit calendar.

Will I be able to tour a residence hall?

We do not show residence halls on regular Foggy Bottom or Mount Vernon Campus tours; we only show residence halls during our admitted student programs. If you’d like to see our first-year residence halls, we encourage you to visit the GW’s Housing Office, which includes videos featuring many of our residence halls.

What is included on a campus tour?

All campus tours are led by student guides, who offer their own GW story and current student insights. On Foggy Bottom campus tours, which last about an hour, you will travel from the Marvin Center (our student center) through our campus to see everything from our academic buildings to food truck row to University Yard and the GW Hippo. A Mount Vernon Campus tour helps you to get acquainted with our smaller residential campus, including its dining halls, athletic spaces and more. Select academic tours are also offered throughout the year for students interested in the Corcoran School of the Arts and Design, School of Public Health, School of Engineering and Applied Science, and School of Business.

Where is the Admissions parking lot?

While we do not offer free parking for guests, there is a paid GW deck available for visitors below the Science and Engineering Hall. Since we are located in the heart of D.C., we recommend using public transit or alternative methods of transportation to reach GW.

How close is the airport or train & bus stations?

As the only D.C. school with our very own Metro stop on campus, travel is just a ride away. Located on the Silver, Blue, and Orange lines, the Metro can take you to Union Station for rail and bus travel (15 minutes) or to Reagan National Airport (DCA) to travel by air (20 minutes). View a map of the Metro Rail system.

Can I make an appointment to speak with an admissions representative?

Appointments are not necessary; there will always be an admission representative available to answer questions while you're on campus. However, if you wish to schedule a meeting or make an appointment to speak with your representative, you can reach out to your admission representative.

Do I need an appointment to visit campus?

We strongly encourage visitors to register in advance for a campus visit, as many sessions do reach capacity. We accommodate walk-ins only on a space-available basis. Note that the Welcome Center will be closed through at least April 5 due to the university's response to COVID-19. View campus updates at https://go.gwu.edu/covid19 and watch our visit calendar for availability.

Can I talk with current students during my visit?

Of course, you will have the opportunity to speak with many current students while on campus. Students staff the reception desk in the Welcome Center and will happily answer any questions you may have during check-in - and your tour guide will be a current student who will share their story and answer your questions. If you’d like to speak with a student from a specific discipline, ask at the Welcome Center or contact our office.

Can I meet with someone regarding my specific academic area of interest?

Our tour guides offer a wealth of GW information, from academics to extracurriculars. In addition, we have students available from each school and many aspects of student life. Their contact information is available from the Welcome Center.

When is the best time to visit campus?

The best time is the time that works for you, and luckily, GW is beautiful and vibrant at all times of the year! However, we do love our Cherry Blossoms, which typically bloom the third week of April. Note that the Welcome Center will be closed through at least April 5 due to the university's response to COVID-19. View campus updates at https://go.gwu.edu/covid19 and watch our visit calendar for availability.

Are there any internship opportunities available to GW students? If so, what types of internships are available?

Yes, in fact, GW is ranked as the #1 university for internships by The Princeton Review. Students usually seek opportunities that align with their majors, but there are so many industries in Washington D.C. that there’s something for everyone. Recent placements have included: The World Bank, The International Monetary Fund, The Naval Research Laboratory, NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center, National Public Radio, the White House, ABC News, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Congress, the French Embassy, the American Psychological Association, and National Geographic. For more information about internship opportunities, please visit Career Services.

Are you able to take an internship for credit?

Yes, it is possible to receive up to 6 credits for internships. The Career Services website has additional information on internships.

Do GW undergrads receive any sort of preference when applying to GW Medicine or GW Law?

Unless GW students have enrolled in an early assurance program, they will not receive preferential treatment in either the GW Medical School of GW Law School admissions process.

Can I take part in research as an undergraduate? What kind of opportunities are there?

Yes, there are undergraduate research experiences that offer students the chance to learn first-hand, in collaboration with professors, how new knowledge is generated. Some students may also engage in research at their respective internship sites. GW has undergraduate fellowships and grants to fund these experiences. Learn more at the Center for Undergraduate Fellowships and Research.

Do you offer study abroad? (if so where and how many students participate)

Yes, and more than 50 percent of GW students will study abroad before they graduate. The Office for Study Abroad provides and facilitates international educational opportunities at GW, including over 300 programs in more than 60 countries.

How do I decide where to live?

Once you are accepted to GW, you will complete a housing form, which allows you to rank your housing preferences, including residence halls on our Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon campuses. Typically, students get one of their top three choices on the housing form. Learn more from GW Housing.

Can I live on-campus all four years?

Yes, students are required to live on campus through their junior year, and there is a housing option for seniors who wish to remain on campus.

Are there any support programs for students with learning differences?

As a diverse and inclusive community, we strive to meet the needs of every GW student. Learn about the numerous supports for students with learning disabilities offered by GW’s Disability Support Services.

Can I have a car on campus?

First-year students on Foggy Bottom cannot have a car on campus, but those on Mount Vernon can. Students in their second year and above may have a car, although very few students find it necessary. Find out more about Transportation and Parking Services on campus.

Is tobacco use allowed on GW’s campus?

No, GW is proudly a smoke-free campus.

What are the dining options for GW students?

GW has an open dining plan. This means that rather than limiting students to just on-campus dining halls, they have the freedom to eat at more than 100 local eateries on or near campus that accept the GWorld card as a form of payment. Get plan prices, browse our dining partners and get more information on the Dining webpage.

Does GW offer any kosher/vegan/gluten-free dining options?

A major perk of our open dining plan is the option to be completely flexible with your own dining experiences. Your dietary needs and/or restrictions are in your hands, and most of our more than 100 dining partners offer kosher, vegan and/or gluten-free options.

Is there Greek life?

Yes, GW has 35 Greek organizations on campus, including pre-professional, cultural and social fraternities and sororities. About 30 percent of students participate in Greek life. Learn more about Greek life at GW.

Can you tell me about religious groups on campus?

Religious life at GW is inclusive and lively, across the board, with more than 20 student organizations centered on faith.

What’s the weather like?

Mid-Atlantic region weather means mild temperatures for fall and spring, with a warm summer and chilly winter. D.C. is a four-season climate.

Where can I find out more about the District of Columbia on the web?

A great place to start is www.washington.org. You can learn about the different D.C. neighborhoods, places to eat, where to stay and things to do!

What do students do for fun at GW?

D.C. is a great place for college students, with many inexpensive culturally enriching opportunities. Many students visit the monuments and various Smithsonian Institutions, explore different neighborhoods of D.C. like Adams Morgan and Capitol Hill or partake in any of the seasonal festivals, concerts, and events in the area.